In Belgium, the erratic spring will probably cause limited blueberry volumes between the early and mid varieties. That is according to Coöperatie Hoogstraten's Hannah Docus. "The early varieties managed to catch up due to the recent warm weather, not so the middle varieties," she says.
At the cooperative, the new season has been underway for several weeks. "We're now in full swing with the early varieties, including Duke. However, spring was long and dark, which delayed cultivation. The unusually warm, sunny period that followed accelerated blueberry growth in the early varieties. In contrast, the middle varieties, like Liberty and Last Call, are lagging somewhat."
"Our growers say they expect a small gap between the two. The middle varieties, in fact, aren't coloring through at all at the moment. That's not going to lead to shortages, but there will probably definitely be less supply available for some time," says Hannah.
Overall volumes, however, will be similar to previous years. "There might be slightly fewer of the later varieties. That's because growers keep wanting to find interesting varieties for the future. Blueberry growing is a multi-year plan, so it takes time, which may mean less available supply in that transition."
Duo packaging
Nevertheless, blueberry demand remains undiminished. "Belgian retailers demand plenty of blueberries," explains Hannah, "and they have several programs running. Last year we launched a duo pack of blueberries and strawberries. Those sales are noticeably picking up this season, which is, obviously, great." Blueberries will be available at Coöperatie Hoogstraten until September.
Along with strawberries, blueberries represent the largest group within Coöperatie Hoogstraten' soft fruit assortment. The cooperative is, therefore, betting on this product group for the future. "We're taking steps in this regard, like installing a new blueberry packing machine this week. It will allow for more efficient work and we'll be able to respond quicker to demand," Hannah concludes.
For more information:
Hannah Docus
Coöperatie Hoogstraten
59 Loenhoutseweg
Hoogstraten, Belgium
Tel: +32 (0) 334 00 202
Email: info@hoogstraten.eu
Website: www.hoogstraten.eu